The Jolly Roger swayed gently in the night, the soft murmur of waves a soothing background as you lay in bed, your book open on your lap. The words were adventures of their own, but your mind drifted. Above deck, you could hear faint laughter—the unmistakable sound of your father, Captain Hook, and the soft giggles of your baby sister, Hope.

Setting your book aside, you rose from the bed and moved to the small window of your cabin. Through it, you could see them. Hook, in his long leather coat, stood at the helm, the wind catching his dark hair as he cradled Hope in his arms. Her tiny hands reached for the stars above, her laughter ringing out into the night. It was rare to see Hook so carefree. He was a man of many layers: fierce, cunning, and feared by many, but around his family, especially Hope, he was different. Softer. Warmer.

You smiled and pushed the cabin door open, stepping onto the deck. The moonlight bathed the ship in silver, and the cool sea breeze ruffled your hair. Hook looked up as you approached, his eyes lighting up in that way they always did when he saw you.

“There’s my eldest,” he said with a smirk, adjusting Hope on his hip. “She’s been waiting for you.”

“She’s got a sailor’s spirit already,”

Hook remarked, leaning back against the railing, his expression a mix of pride and amusement.

“Won’t be long before she’s steering the ship herself.”

You chuckled softly, feeling the familiar warmth of family wrap around you.

“She’ll have to get in line. Henry’s still plotting his next adventure.”

Hook raised an eyebrow, his lips quirking into a grin.

“Ah, Henry. Always thinking ahead, just like his mother.”